Ucp3 -55c>t variant is associated with reduced fat mass accumulation regardless of physical activity levels

Introduction. The study aimed to investigate the association between UCP3 -55C>T variant and obesity-related traits in physically active and inactive female and male adults. Material and methods. A total of 182 physically active and inactive subjects (80 females and 102 males, 18-33 years of age) from Moscow and Moscow region participated in the study. The genotyping of the polymorphic site in UCP3 gene (rs1800849) was performed. Body length, body mass and body composition were measured. Body mass index (BMI) and waist to height ratio (WHtR) were calculated. Results. Regression analysis revealed that the T allele was significantly associated with a lower amount of body fat and WHtR in both physically active and inactive individuals. Physical activity enhanced the protective effect of the UCP3 -55C>T variant by 20%. Conclusion. Physical activity enhanced the protective effect of the UCP3 -55C>T variant and reduced obesity risks.